First of all, thanks to all of you who answered questions and offered advice prior to our trip. In many instances it made all the difference! At any rate, here's my review and helpful hints of my own.
EMBARKATION
We left the hotel at 11:00. Security was a breeze, but then there was some "hurry up and wait". If you can, arrive after 11:30. The wait is a little shorter at that time-we learned that after cruising Princess from the same pier last year. Regardless, we were still on the ship, carry-ons duly deposited in our cabin and at the Mariner lunch by 12:30. Lovely!